The complete list of X-Men movies
Explore the cinematic journey of the X-Men, from their origins to their epic battles. This list covers the essential films in the mutant saga.



The X-Men film franchise has had a fascinating, and at times, convoluted history. Starting in 2000 with X-Men, the films helped usher in the modern superhero movie era, proving that comic book adaptations could be both critically and commercially successful. Over the years, we've seen shifts in tone, timeline adjustments, and the introduction of fan-favorite characters like Deadpool and the gritty portrayal of Wolverine in Logan. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the world of mutants, revisiting these films offers a chance to see how the superhero genre has evolved and to appreciate the complex themes of prejudice, acceptance, and the fight for equality that are central to the X-Men's story.
14. The New Mutants (2020)
The New Mutants takes the X-Men universe in a different direction, leaning into the horror genre. The film centers on a group of young mutants held in a secret facility who begin to experience terrifying events as they come to terms with their powers. Directed by Josh Boone, this film faced numerous delays and production issues before its eventual release. It offers a smaller, more contained story compared to the larger X-Men blockbusters and explores the psychological aspects of being a mutant.

12. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
X-Men Origins: Wolverine is a prequel that delves into Wolverine's mysterious past, exploring his origins, his time with Team X, and his relationship with Sabretooth. While it provides some backstory for the character, the film is generally considered one of the weaker entries in the X-Men franchise. It features several mutant cameos and attempts to explain how Wolverine got his adamantium skeleton. Despite its flaws, it offers some insights into Logan's tumultuous history.

11. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
X-Men: The Last Stand concludes the original X-Men trilogy and adapts elements from the iconic "Dark Phoenix Saga" and "Gifted" storylines from the comics. Directed by Brett Ratner, the film deals with a mutant cure and the re-emergence of Jean Grey's dark power. It features some significant character deaths and attempts to provide closure to the initial arc of the team. The film was met with a mixed reception from fans and critics upon its release.

10. X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)
X-Men: Apocalypse sees the younger X-Men team facing off against one of their most powerful foes, the ancient mutant Apocalypse. Directed by Bryan Singer, the film introduces several new iterations of classic characters, including Storm, Jean Grey, and Cyclops. While the film has some exciting moments, such as another memorable Quicksilver sequence, it received mixed reviews compared to its predecessors. It serves as a continuation of the First Class timeline, exploring the challenges the team faces in the 1980s.

9. The Wolverine (2013)
The Wolverine takes Logan to Japan for a more character-focused story that draws inspiration from the acclaimed comic book storyline by Chris Claremont and Frank Miller. Directed by James Mangold, the film explores Logan's immortality and the burden it carries. While not without its flaws, the film offers some unique action sequences and a deeper look into Logan's psyche. The setting of Japan provides a visually distinct backdrop for his journey of self-discovery and facing his past.

8. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
Deadpool & Wolverine brings two of Marvel's most popular characters together for the first time on the big screen in the MCU. With Shawn Levy at the helm and Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman reprising their iconic roles, anticipation is sky-high. This film promises more of the signature R-rated humor, action, and fourth-wall breaking that fans love from the Deadpool franchise, now with the added bonus of Wolverine's adamantium claws. Expect multiversal madness and plenty of banter between the two titular heroes.

7. Deadpool 2 (2018)
Deadpool 2 continues the irreverent and hilarious adventures of the Merc with a Mouth. This sequel ups the ante on the action and introduces fan-favorite characters like Cable and Domino, played brilliantly by Josh Brolin and Zazie Beetz. The film leans even harder into its meta-humor and R-rated sensibilities, delivering plenty of laughs and over-the-top violence. The formation of X-Force is a particularly funny sequence that subverts expectations. While maintaining the comedic tone, the film also manages to inject some genuine heart into Wade Wilson's story.

6. X2 (2003)
X2 (also known as X2: X-Men United) is often considered one of the best superhero sequels ever made. Building on the foundation of the first film, it expands the world of the X-Men, introduces new characters like Nightcrawler, and delves deeper into the motivations of both heroes and villains. The attack on the Xavier School is a particularly memorable and intense sequence. Bryan Singer returned to direct and delivered a film that was bigger, bolder, and more emotionally resonant than its predecessor. The dynamic between Wolverine and the young mutants, particularly Rogue, is a highlight.

5. X-Men (2000)
X-Men is the film that started it all for the modern superhero movie boom. Released in 2000, it successfully translated the complex world of the X-Men to the big screen, introducing iconic characters like Wolverine, Storm, Jean Grey, and Cyclops to a wider audience. Directed by Bryan Singer, the film grounded the fantastical elements with a focus on the themes of prejudice and acceptance, which are central to the X-Men comics. Hugh Jackman's portrayal of Wolverine was an instant sensation, launching him into superstardom. It's a foundational film that deserves credit for proving that superhero movies could be more than just campy B-movies.

4. Deadpool (2016)
Deadpool is a breath of foul-mouthed, fourth-wall-breaking fresh air in the superhero genre. Ryan Reynolds was born to play Wade Wilson, and his passion for the character shines through in every scene. This R-rated romp is hilarious, action-packed, and surprisingly heartfelt at times. The film embraced its comic book roots with a meta-commentary on the superhero genre itself, making it a unique and incredibly entertaining experience. It proved that superhero movies didn't have to be strictly PG-13 to be successful and paved the way for more adult-oriented comic book adaptations.

3. X-Men: First Class (2011)
X-Men: First Class is a fantastic origin story that breathes new life into the franchise by taking us back to the 1960s to explore the early relationship between Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr, before they became Professor X and Magneto. Matthew Vaughn's direction is stylish and energetic, capturing the look and feel of the era perfectly. James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender are phenomenal as the young Xavier and Magneto, bringing depth and charisma to their roles. The film is a smart, character-driven piece that lays the groundwork for the future of the X-Men universe and successfully reboots the series with a fresh perspective.

2. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
X-Men: Days of Future Past is an ambitious and wildly successful time-traveling adventure that brilliantly merges the original X-Men cast with their younger counterparts. Bryan Singer returned to direct, and he delivered a complex narrative that not only served as a sequel to First Class and The Last Stand but also cleverly retconned some less-loved aspects of the franchise. Seeing icons like Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen interact with James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender is a genuine treat. The Quicksilver scene, set to Jim Croce's "Time in a Bottle," is an absolute standout and became instantly legendary among fans. This film is a high point for the series, offering both thrilling action and a compelling story.

1. Logan (2017)
Prepare yourself for Logan, a stark and emotionally resonant farewell to Hugh Jackman's iconic Wolverine. This isn't your typical superhero flick; it's a gritty, R-rated neo-western that explores themes of aging, legacy, and sacrifice with brutal honesty. Director James Mangold crafted a truly powerful and moving story that feels earned after nearly two decades of Jackman in the role. The performances are outstanding, particularly from Jackman and Dafne Keen as Laura/X-23, who brings a raw intensity to her character. This film is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling within the superhero genre and stands as one of the best films in the entire X-Men saga.
